Sydney Harbour and Beaches for First-Timers
The Opera House, Harbour Bridge, the Manly ferry and the Bondi coastal walk, covering Sydney's must-sees in three days.
A compact version for a first trip to Sydney. Day one covers Circular Quay, the Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden. Day two takes in The Rocks, walks across the Harbour Bridge, then takes a ferry to Manly. Day three follows the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee before heading to the airport. Stay around Circular Quay throughout. Walking and ferries are enough, so there are no day trips out of the city.
December–February is the summer peak season. Beaches are crowded, so wear sunscreen.
Day by day
Day 1 · Circular Quay and the Opera House
Sydney（Circular Quay、Sydney Opera House、Royal Botanic Garden Sydney、Mrs Macquarie's Chair）
Take the airport train to Circular Quay station, about 15 minutes, then explore the south side of the harbour on foot.
Opera House tours sell out in peak season, so book ahead.
Stay: Circular Quay and The Rocks
Day 2 · The Rocks, Harbour Bridge and Manly
Sydney（The Rocks、Sydney Harbour Bridge、Manly Beach）
Walk around The Rocks and cross the Harbour Bridge on foot. Return to Circular Quay and take the F1 ferry to Manly, about 30 minutes.
Bridge climbs need advance booking. The Rocks has a market on weekends.
Stay: Circular Quay and The Rocks
Day 3 · Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Sydney（Bondi Beach、Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk）
Take the train to Bondi Junction, then a bus to Bondi Beach. The walk is about 6 km and takes 2–3 hours. From Coogee, take a bus or taxi to the airport.
You can store luggage at your hotel, or book a later flight.